This bill introduces significant reforms to the charter school system in New Jersey, focusing on enhancing oversight, transparency, and accountability. It defines a charter management organization as a nonprofit entity managing charter schools and mandates a compensation study to compare salaries of top employees with those in public school districts. The bill requires that at least 51 percent of teaching staff and parents or guardians support the establishment of a charter school through a petition. It also prohibits charter schools from operating outside New Jersey or primarily online, and from contracting with for-profit entities for management services, while allowing contracts with nonprofit charter management organizations. Additionally, charter schools must meet the same educational standards as public schools and undergo annual assessments by the Commissioner of Education.

Further amendments include stricter governance guidelines, such as residency requirements for board members and the necessity for the Commissioner’s approval for new board appointments. The bill prohibits non-disclosure agreements and restrictive covenants in employment, ensuring transparency in hiring practices. It mandates public hearings for significant contract changes and requires charter schools to maintain a public website with operational details. The legislation also enhances training for charter school board members and requires compliance with the School Ethics Act for executives of charter management organizations receiving state or local funds. Overall, these changes aim to improve the integrity and effectiveness of charter schools in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 18A:36A-4, 18A:36A-5, 18A:36A-10, 18A:36A-14, 18A:36A-16, 18A:36A-17, 18A:12-33